Three Ways a Structural Engineer Can Help Your Residential Project
If you're building a new home or extending a current one, a structural engineer will be involved in the project. It can be confusing to know their role and how they help, as so many consultants will take part. To clarify, here are several ways they help.
Safety
A structural engineer ensures the safety of the building in terms of its integrity. They're experts in construction materials, building methods and physics, and they can analyse whether a proposed structure is stable and can bear the load placed on it. This involves using modelling computer software that can measure the effects of diverse materials and designs. The structural engineer works with other experts, such as architects and builders, during the planning and drafting stages. Various other residential projects require a structural engineer's input, such as a high retaining wall or an in-ground swimming pool. Their input allows you to feel safe and secure about the soundness of the structures on your property.
Inspections
Whenever you undergo major construction, you will need a building inspection that will tick off the project, certifying its compliance with regulations. Depending on the nature of the remodel, it may require several checks at distinct stages. A structural engineer can help prepare for the inspection by ensuring the construction is sound. Some structural engineers can also conduct building inspections, as can other construction experts, as they are qualified and have the experience to offer this additional service. Another situation in which you might want a building inspection is when you're purchasing a new home and want it assessed before you commit. The examination will reveal any flaws in the property.
Design
A structural engineer can help you dream up feasible possibilities for a project. For example, you might want to rearrange the layout of your existing house and create an open-plan living area. For this to happen, you'll need to shift walls around, some of which will be supporting structures. With the expertise of an engineer, you can be creative, and they can suggest alternatives you may not have considered.
Consulting engineers also take the environment and weather into account in their calculations. They use computer software that can analyse the effect of an earthquake or a hurricane on a proposed design. If you live in a flood-prone area, they can put the relevant details into the modelling program to best prepare the building for whatever it may encounter in the future.
For more information, reach out to consulting engineers near you.